Select your country to find specific China visa requirements, visa-free options, application process, and expert travel tips for 2026.
Select your country below to get specific China visa requirements, visa-free options, CDAC form guidance, and personalised tips for your trip.
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US passport holders generally need a visa to enter mainland China. An L tourist visa or M business visa is required for most travel purposes. The 240-hour transit visa-free option is available for qualifying travellers.
View Full Guide โBritish citizens generally need a visa for mainland China. Holders of diplomatic, official, or service passports may qualify for 30-day visa-free entry. Ordinary passport holders should apply for an L or M visa before travel.
View Full Guide โCanadian citizens may qualify for 30-day visa-free entry under the mutual exemption agreement. An L tourist visa is recommended if your stay exceeds 30 days or if you plan multiple entries within a short period.
View Full Guide โGreat news for Aussie travellers! Australian citizens enjoy 30-day visa-free access to mainland China under the mutual visa exemption. No visa needed for stays up to 30 days for tourism, visiting friends, or short-term business.
View Full Guide โRegardless of your nationality or visa status, all foreign visitors to China must complete the China Digital Arrival Card (CDAC) online before departure. This includes:
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Visa-free travellers (including Australians and Canadians)
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Visa holders (L, M, Q, X visas)
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Transit passengers
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240-hour transit exemption users
How to complete: Visit s.nia.gov.cn up to 72 hours before your departure. The form is available in English. Save your QR code to show on arrival.
As of 2026, citizens of 54 countries can enjoy 15-30 day visa-free entry to China, including Australia, Canada, Singapore, Malaysia, and many European countries. US and UK ordinary passport holders generally still need a visa. Check our full visa-free country list for details.
China offers a 240-hour (10-day) transit visa exemption for travellers passing through designated ports to a third country. Available at major airports including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu. You must have a confirmed onward ticket and cannot use it for tourism.
Extensions are very difficult to obtain. If you need to stay longer than your visa-free allowance, you should apply for the appropriate visa (L, M, etc.) before your trip. Overstaying can result in fines, detention, and future entry bans.